MSA Safety Inc. (NYSE: MSA) announced that its board of directors has elected Robert A. Bruggeworth as chairman, effective May 8, 2026. Bruggeworth succeeds Nish Vartanian, who will continue serving as a director.

Bruggeworth joined MSA's board in 2007 and was appointed lead independent director in 2017. He currently serves as president and chief executive officer of Qorvo Inc., a connectivity and power solutions provider, and sits on Qorvo's board of directors.

Before Qorvo's formation through the merger of RF Micro Devices Inc. and TriQuint Semiconductor Inc., Bruggeworth served as RFMD's president and CEO. His earlier career included various positions at AMP Inc., a $5.5 billion electrical and electronic connection device supplier, where he held roles including divisional vice president for the Asia Pacific region.

Bruggeworth earned a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Wilkes University in Pennsylvania. He serves on the Semiconductor Industry Association board and was its chair in 2021.

"Bob's guidance on the board has been an important contributor to our success, and his leadership as chairman positions us well to achieve our future goals," said MSA President and CEO Steven C. Blanco.

MSA Safety, headquartered in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania, reported 2025 revenues of $1.9 billion and employs approximately 5,300 associates across more than 40 international locations. The company develops industrial safety technology products and solutions.